From the American Animal Hospital Association

March / April 2011

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Get Help With Puppy Behavior

Expert Explores Unexplained Animal Behavior

Why do animals yawn? Why do cats eat grass? Why do they purr? And why on earth does my pet eat poop? Benjamin Hart, DVM, PhD, DACVB, and distinguished professor emeritus at the University of California – Davis, addressed some of the more inexplicable behaviors of companion animals in his talk at the American Veterinary Medical Association’s (AVMA) conference this year: “Why do they do that? Purring, yawning, flipping out on catnip, and eating poop.”

Bringing a New Kitten Home

Bringing a new kitten home is exciting. Take a look at this article for information that will help you and your kitten adjust to this big change in your lives, including preparation tips, veterinary care guidelines, nutrition information and socialization ideas.

Cats Get Arthritis Too

Osteoarthritis is defined as a degenerative condition of the joints in which the normal cartilage cushion in the joint breaks down. Eventually, adjacent bones rub against each other, causing pain, decreased joint movement, and sometimes the formation of bone spurs and other changes around the joint. It is a progressive disease; however, it can be actively managed so that the course of the disease is slowed and remaining joint function is preserved. Diagnosing osteoarthritis in cats can be difficult. Your veterinarian will rely on you to tell him about changes you’ve noticed in your cat.

I Want to Be a Veterinarian When I Grow Up

Hey kids, in celebration of World Veterinary Year 2011 and the 250th anniversary of the profession, we’re including a game in each issue of PetsMatter this year that focuses on a job in the industry. Ever thought maybe someday you’d like to be a veterinarian? Click here to play this game and learn things like what a veterinarian does, what’s great about the job and what other kinds of jobs a veterinarian can do.

Does the Carpet Match My Dog? Pet-Friendly Amenities Attract Home Buyers

Christina McCarthy and her husband had a good feeling about the house. It was priced right and located in a quiet Westminster, Colo. neighborhood. When the young couple ventured into the backyard, they realized they’d found the home of their dreams.

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PetsMatter is provided by the American Animal Hospital Association for educational purposes only. The information should not be used as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. PetsMatter is not intended as a recommendation or endorsement of specific tests, products, procedures, or opinions. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian.

AAHA is an association of veterinary teams that are committed to excellence in companion animal care. It is the only organization that accredits animal hospitals throughout the United States and Canada.

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